Take a look at Melvin Gordon's college career at Wisconsin.






















Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon III
6'1", 215 lb.
Junior
Bio
Rated by Rivals.com as the 24th best RB in the nation
Rated by ESPN as top ranked player in Wisconsin as a senior (2010)
State Player of the Year as as a senior (2010)
Ran for 38 TD, 2,009 yards on 158 carries as a senior (2010)
Gatorade Player of the Year as a junior (2009)
Served as a summer intern at Merrill Lynch prior to final season at Wisconsin
Honors
2nd All-time single season rushing leader - 2.587 yards (2014)
FBS record holder for career rushing average - 7.79 yards per carry
Heisman Trophy Runner-up (2014)
Doak Walker Award Recipient (2014)
Maxwell Award Finalist (2014)
Unanimous, Consensus 1st Team All-America (2014)
Grange-Griffin B1G Offensive Player of the Year (2014)
1st Team All-B1G (2014)
Honorable Mention All-America (SI - 2013)
2nd Team All-B1G (2013)
Combine Measurements
Arms: 32 â
"
Hand: 9 Ÿ"
40-yd dash: 4.52 secs
Bench: 19 reps of 225
Vertical Jump: 35"
Broad Jump: 10'6"
3-cone: 7.04
Short shuttle: 4.07
Long shuttle: 11.00
Overall
After a stellar 2013 season, it seemed a foregone conclusion that Gordon would declare for the 2014 draft. At least, I thought that was the case. Once talking about the decision college running backs face when to declare for the draft, I compared a running back's football "age" to that of a dog. Canine's typically age seven years for every one actually lived or so it's believed. It's not quite that drastic, but a 30-year old running back that's started for years in the NFL feels way "older" than a wide receiver or tight end at the same age. My point was that running backs should "start their NFL clock" before the dog years kick in. Some defy nature and make it past 30; however, there's a reason that we don't see many 30 year old running backs in this league.
All of that brings me back to Gordon and his final year at Wisconsin. It actually helped him to go back to Madison, become THE bellcow running back, with no James White or Montee Ball to share carries, and show the NFL scouts that he has the capability to be The Horse. Was it enough to get him drafted in the first round? I'd be shocked if it didn't. Let's look at why.
Texans analyst and radio sideline reporter John Harris unveiled his top 100 prospects for the NFL Draft. (Photos courtesy of AP)

Combine Update: Good weekend for Williams, concluding with 4.97 40...34 reps on bench were one off the best of the DL...however, his COD and explosive drill measurements were below average...that said, he looked smooth, comfortable and, of course, powerful in his on-the-field drills...Report: Best interior defender in college footballâŠlove his ability to play in odd and/or even frontsâŠquick off the ball...nagging injuries got him a bit last year...can play the 3-tech in 3-4 under fronts or traditional over 4-3 frontsâŠcan play him at 5-technique in 3-4 scheme...redirects well...creates havoc up the field...must continue to work on hand placement and interior pass rush moves

Combine Update: Gold watch and all, he ran a 4.60 at 261 pounds...the rest of his measurement day was average but that straight line speed at that weight is highly impressive...there will be no change on my Top 100 board as Fowler will stay at No. 2, even with more film watched over the past few weeks...Report: My friend is the sideline reporter for the Gators and he LOVES FowlerâŠstrong season in 2013, even better in 2014âŠpowerful and violent with his handsâŠlove his versatility and burstâŠwas dinged up and played through itâŠcan play for me yesterdayâŠlove his scheme versatilityâŠ1st Team All-SEC in 2014âŠwhen the volume is turned up to ten, look out, he can take over a game

Combine Update: Outstanding workout on the field...blew teams away apparently in interviews...threw effortlessly and clean, just what teams wanted to see...thrived in the spotlight...at his Pro Day in Tallahassee, he threw as expected., even though some have issues with his physique...it's clear he can make every throw and make it look effortless Report: Physical characteristics NFL teams desireâŠaccurate at all levels...does "sail" deeper intermediate routes - a lot of those throws fly away from him as his elbow dips slightlyâŠincorrectly reads zone/man on occasion...slow starter, nearly dominant in the second halfâŠawkward at times vs. rushâŠpatientâŠhigh FB IQâŠthrows receivers open by throwing to open spots, anticipating a receiver to be in the areaâŠmuch less accomplished 2014 seasonâŠseems obvious that he'll be the Bucs selection in late April.

Combine Update: Ran well at 4.42...had 33" vertical and 10' broad jump which was a bit disappointing...but his COD drills were outstanding 3.98 in the SS and 6.71 in the 3-cone...solid, expected workout...Report: Played hurt throughout 2013âŠdownfield threatâŠwrote back in the spring that he needed to work on his route running for the 2014 season, he did that and then someâŠmonster season in 2014âŠHeisman Trophy finalistâŠelectric on short screensâŠhigh pointed ball well on fade routesâŠslippery with the ball in his handsâŠtends to lose concentration catching the football at times

Combine Update: Ran 4.52...showed the athleticism we knew he had...threw it well, not overwhelming...still looks a bit awkwards pressing away from center...solid weekend in Indianapolis though...Report: Smooth athleteâŠplus armâŠdurability concerns prior to 2014 campaignâŠthrows well on the runâŠdangerous on the moveâŠa bit frenetic in the pocketâŠgoes through progressions but often too quick to allow a route to developâŠsmart and high football IQâŠformer Oregon coach Chip Kelly said he can adapt to any system, any timeâŠplayed the last half of the 2013 season with a knee injuryâŠfought through it but injury affected his playâŠgained 15 pounds in the 2014 offseason and it didn't hamper himâŠwon 2014 Heisman TrophyâŠshould be, and will be, in the discussion for the first pick in the draft

Combine Update: Ran 5.05 in the 40, then pulled his hamstring in on-the-field drills and missed the majority of the workout...at his Pro Day, 31 teams showed up to see him workout...32.5" vertical jump and improved to 23 reps of 225 Report: MAULERâŠjust plain nastyâŠcan zone block exceptionally wellâŠmoves up to second levelâŠburies players at the point of attackâŠcan get lazy and quit on plays at timesâŠwhen he's locked on you, you're going downâŠwill maintain pass block based on time clock in his head...massive power and explosion on contact...think he's more suited to play right tackle or guard...weight room freak...plays with perfect pad level...heavy handed...should be a top 20 pick

Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianpolis due to ACL tear in November...more I thought about it though, as a player, he needs to be a top ten on my top 100...he's just that good...Report: Closest thing to Adrian Peterson there isâŠpower back with attitudeâŠnot much wiggleâŠdurability concernsâŠfinishes runsâŠone of two RB with a definite first round grade, even with the knee injuryâŠtore his ACL in the Auburn game NovemberâŠsuffered some sort of injury each season at Georgia

Combine Update: The Combine's DL winner over the weekend...first, he weighed in at 246 lbs...then he threw up 35 reps at 225 pounds...then he ran 4.53...the he registered a 41" vertical...Ball. Game...he was the most impressive looking athlete on Sunday at the Combine, pure and simple...I worried about him at 235 but at 246 and that strong? Yeah, not so much...Thought he was coming out in 2014âŠeven though he had a much decorated season, not sure the return truly improved his draft stockâŠpure pass rusherâŠmust transition to 3-4 OLBâŠMost accomplished and diverse pass rusher in this conference...can win with speed or technique...great first step...decorated in 2014, won nearly every award a college defensive player could win

Combine Update: Didn't workout in Indy as he's still rehabbing from an injury suffered in his bowl game...his Pro Day at Mizzou came with some mixed reviews...ran 4.65 40-yd dash, 33.5" VJ but his COD times were nearly glacial...could indicate that his injured foot just isn't right yet Report: Crazy burst and explosiveness off the ballâŠmakes everyone else on the field look like they're in slow motionâŠgoing to be a fast riser in 2015 DraftâŠdoesn't square up when taking on blocks in the run game...turns his body to avoid full contact and often gets taken out of a play when he does thatâŠwatching the 2014 Cotton Bowl he didn't just pop off the screen, he exploded...question will be whether he can make the transition from 4-3 DE to 3-4 OLB...13 sacks and 22.5 TFL in 2014...never stops rushing, high effort, high motor

Combine Update: The offensive star of the Combine...ran official 4.35 in the 40, 36.5" vertical, 6.92 SS...hard to find the right comp at his size, speed and complete game...Report: Catches nearly everythingâŠgreat ball skillsâŠhigh points the footballâŠreminds me of DeAndre HopkinsâŠsnatches ball out of the air...showed a bit of wiggle and shake, fighting off defenders on a screen catch and runâŠability to start, stop and accelerate in a hiccup is on a different level, wow...can lose concentration a bit

Combine Update: The buzz when the DL/LB weighed in was that Gregory only measured 235 pounds...he ran relatively well at 4.64 but it was his change of direction and quick twitch that was on display during the on-the-field work...36.5" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...still can only play 3-4 OLB but the athleticism holds up...tested positive for marijuana on his drug test at the Combine...combined with previous issues with failed tests at Nebraska, teams might have already taken him off their boards Report: Freakish athleticismâŠthought for sure he was going to declare for the 2014 NFL Draft as a third year sophomoreâŠif he can stand up and play 3-4 OLB, he'll be a top 10 player, no questions askedâŠgood length...rare DE that appears more explosive standing up than in a stanceâŠlike many current DE, he likes to use the stab maneuver...next level is to add a counter to the stab (rip inside, arm over)...something is holding me back on putting him in the top ten...something's lacking

Combine Update: Some were concerned what he'd run, even me...but he alleviated any fears with a 4.53 40 at 228 pounds...same size as Shaq Thompson and nearly .1 second faster...looked good with his hip turn and explosiveness in on-the-field drills...good weekend...1st Team All-SEC and 1st Team All-American in 2014...believed that he was on the verge of being one of the best overall defensive players Nick Saban's had at AlabamaâŠdon't feel that way after a good, but not great junior year...playmaker all over the fieldâŠsolid in zone coverage with some range, not tremendous in man coverageâŠgreat tackler in spaceâŠmore of a box safety or a combination box safety/dime linebacker prospect...in today's game, that position is so vital

Combine Update: 4.31...that's all that needs to be said about Waynes' workout...but the rest of it was strong as well...38" vertical and a 10'2" broad jump, in addition to his 19 reps of 225...just stellar money-making weekend for Waynes...Report: Did not finish his 2014 season with his best effort in the Cotton BowlâŠcompetitive and longâŠplayed a bunch of quarters coverage, but within the scheme, a ton of man coverageâŠSize and potential will win a team over early in the draftâŠfar from a complete prospect at this point but he plays press coverage like a beast.

Combine Update: Solid, expected workout...ran 4.52 in the 40, 35" vertical, 4.07 SS and 7.04 3-cone drill...he's not a 4.3, long speed guy but his in-the-hole speed and burst are outstanding...performed well in on the field drills...checked boxes, if he didn't blow anyone away...Report: Speed unlike we typically see at WisconsinâŠruns hard between the tackles, but not his forteâŠexcellent lateral quicknessâŠwon't get the edge like he does in collegeâŠinsane burst thoughâŠthe more I watch him, the more I think Jamaal CharlesâŠshowed tremendous pass blocking acumen, especially in the Outback Bowl âŠrushed for the 2nd most yards in a season all-time

Combine Update: Size, speed and strength were on display throughout his weekend in Indianapolis...4.44 in the 40, 42" vertical and 10'3" broad jump...such a raw player with a ton of growth potential...Report: JUCO transfer that didn't get a ton of offers out of high schoolâŠa true downfield threatâŠwants the ball in his handsâŠplay maker after the catchâŠburst to run away from secondary when in the openâŠnot completely polished productâŠcomfortable and aggressive with the ball in the airâŠcurious to see how he times at the Combine, but honestly don't really care he can playâŠhe's toughâŠdoesn't back down from a challenge (see the Washington game in 2014 v. Marcus Peters)âŠcaught a season changing Hail Mary at USC to beat the Trojans

Combine Update: The Combine isn't really the place for a 339 lb. man...that said, he did vertical 30.5" which is highly impressive for a man that size...seemingly enjoyed the process throughout...put up 34 reps at 225...Report: Can play up and down the lineâŠconditioning has been a factorâŠpowerful at point of attackâŠmoves very well for a 327 lb. man (uh, that's after a month of dieting, folks)âŠMUCH more stout at the point of attackâŠreminds many of Haloti NgataâŠthink Ngata was a more natural athlete but Shelton in that same vein

Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury he suffered during workouts prior to Combine...did run at his Pro Day...WOW. Ran a 4.2! Scouts were blown away, expecting him to be fast but perhaps not that fast...that time, alone, raised his stock..Report: Son of former NFL player Brett PerrimanâŠhas size and strength that next level receivers needâŠshone throughout the 2014 seasonâŠmade Hail Mary catch for a TD to beat ECU in finaleâŠfinished season with season high nine receptions v. NC State in the Bitcoin BowlâŠso explosive in everything that he does...running slant routes, he runs away from CB...v. NC State, he ran a stutter and go and when he went, he was shot out of a cannonâŠwhen he plants to cut, his next step creates huge separation consistentlyâŠmust be more consistent catching the football, trust his hands and not let the ball get into his body

Combine Update: 4.45 in the 40, 17 reps of 225, 36.5" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...about what he did in the spring, an expected workout Report: Surprised that he didn't declare for 2014 DraftâŠget a Jarvis Landry vibe, but faster, from ParkerâŠgets separationâŠexcellent handsâŠhigh points the footballâŠhas to have better awareness of where he is on the field, especially in between the numbers...v. FSU, key 3rd/11 play, he ran his dig route at nine yards...does a great job setting up DB on his route...smart, precise route runner but can still work on it...didn't originally think he was a burner but he was clocked at 4.38 in the springâŠdid 17 reps at 225 pounds and a broad jump of 10'10".

Combine Update: Ran a decent 40 yard dash, top 1/3 in the OL group (5.18)..curious to see what teams think about the shape they think he's in...I see NFL OL bodies every day and his doesn't look like one...that said, he shone as one of the top five overall OL workouts...31" vertical and nealry 9' broad jump...Report: Five star recruit coming out of HS...started two seasons at left tackle...needs to be more under control...slides the arc well...athletic feet...must bend his knees more, drop his butt and develop a stronger base...powerful man who could be more with work on his technique/power stanceâŠ1st Team All-American in 2014âŠHonorable mention All-American in 2013

Combine Update: Didn't run as many expected...4.64 40 and didn't wow in the explosive drills as he only jumped 33.5" and a less than 10' broad jump...dominated the movements in the on-the-field drills...it wasn't a banner weekend but this guy can play a ton of different positions and play them well...Came to Washington as a safetyâŠmoved to OLB in 2013âŠthumperâŠneeds to be more under control in spaceâŠ4-3 WLB candidateâŠin 2014, he doubled as a running backâŠjust an amazing athlete and one of the top 15 football players in the countryâŠfigure out what position suits him best and he'll shine

Combine Update: Clearly, he was the most athletic, smooth, powerful and light-on-his-feet OL...ran well, but he was light on his feet...only benched 225 lb. 21x and didn't have great explosive marks...movement drills, though, on the field were excellent...Report: One of the nation's top HS prospects a few years agoâŠruns hot and cold for meâŠhe needed another year at LSU and it paid offâŠshould be one of the top 3 tackles/OL off the board this MayâŠwill fit in a power scheme...doesn't have tremendous feet...gets overextended on speed rush...speed will hurt him significantly, mainly in pass protection...even though he had a solid week in Mobile, he needs to go to guard and star...strong upper body and mean

Combine Update: Came to the Combine at 307 lb., his heaviest weight...delivered a fairly solid workout...5.12 40 and a 31" vertical...saw a scout chide him for walking where he wasn't supposed to and Humphries just ignored it as if the scout didn't matter...mercurial sort who was a bit defensive in his interview session as well...Report: Declared for the 2015 NFL Draft after denying it two weeks prior to the deadlineâŠlight on his feetâŠneeds a ton of work but he's an athlete, no argument thereâŠstrongâŠv. FSU DE Mario Edwards, on a pass play, Edwards initially shocked Humphries but as he continued, Humphries got back up underneath him and nearly put him back on his walletâŠit was a WOW moment for me watching himâŠsolid technique and footwork on the arcâŠdoes play a little tall and tends to lunge, instead of sinking his butt and hipsâŠtransition to E/T twist is excellentâŠgets initial shock on run blocks, doesn't finish themâŠguys like La'el Collins and Brandon Scherff want to bury DL, whereas Humphries does too much watching at the end of the playâŠspeed rushers get a jump on him and his technique goes to, well, you knowâŠthat's expected though from LT in Pop Warner all the way to the NFLâŠcarries his hands low on pass pro, would like to see them start higher and strike more accurately and effectively.

Combine Update: Uh, yeah...269 pounds running 4.56 with a 42" vertical and 11'6" broad jump? Unreal...he didn't do position drills but we all knew he'd get his combine freak on and he did...just wish his play completely matched his height, weight, speed dominance...Report: 9.5 tackles for a loss and seven sacks in 2013...explosive all-around prospect with scheme versatility...if he can prove that he can play 3-4 OLB, he's going to make some noise on day two in April/May 2015âŠhe'll blow up the Combine - verticaled 40.5 inches and broad jumped over 11 feetâŠburst off the ball

Combine Update: Unfortunately, his 4.80 40 will pale in comparison to Beasley and Dupree...he didn't make significant noise in any one measurement drill and those that questioned his overall athleticism have ammunition...that said, his tape doesn't lie...did OLB drills after his DL workout was done...Report: Dominant in 2014âŠ2nd in the nation with 18.5 sacksâŠregistered 21 TFLâŠnot a complete surprise but he still made significant progressâŠstrong and longâŠgood burst off the ballâŠif anything else, he can get to the QBâŠuses his hands very well, whether rushing or playing the runâŠvariety of skilled hand movements (stab, chop, arm over, rip under)...grew on me in his career, did the same at Senior Bowl...watched him in individual and wasn't impressed then as the practice wore on, I was full-on focused on him...completely dominated team sessions at times throughout the week...last season wasn't an aberration...I'm higher on him than others but I think his best football is in front of him.

Combine Update: Ran 4.53 in the 40...had a solid overall workout and confirmed the fact that teams will have to truly understand what kind of professional he's going to be...37.5" vertical is strong, as is 10'1" broad jump...made the next few months very difficult for teams with a corner need in the first round...Report: Kicked off the team at Washington in 2014âŠwonderfully talented and mercurial with the coaching staffâŠperhaps more talent than any other player at his positionâŠperhaps more question marks with attitude and such than any other at his position...plays press like a champ...doing it completely on athletic ability than technique...in fact, there's no technique at all...fun 1-on-1 film v. Arizona State WR Jaelen Strong.

Combine Update: Did not work out due to injury suffered prior to Combine...Report: 1st Team All-ACC in 2014âŠplayed in the shadow of current Baltimore Ravens DT Tim JerniganâŠemerged this year and made a ton of plays forced a huge fumble late in the Clemson game that saved the season, essentiallyâŠstrong, quick and disruptive at the point of attackâŠI'm left wanting a little more and not sure why

Combine Update: Didn't set the world on fire with his workout but it was solid....he ran 5.05 in the 40...put up 26 reps at 225 and nearly hit 30" with his vertical...with Eddie Goldman unable to work out, Brown took advantage with a good weekend...Report: Dominant 2014 seasonâŠhighly productive when it matteredâŠfrom that perspective, he reminds me a bit of Travis JohnsonâŠdecorated seasonâŠstrong lower trunkâŠ

Combine Update: Ran a 4.61 and then didn't run his second 40, that was strange...then he jumped 38" vertically and 10'5" in the broad jump...his brother Mychal thrived at the Combine a few years ago and Eric did the same...would like to hear why he didn't run the second 40 but his 1st time was excellent...Report: Tackling machineâŠbrother was a hot prospect out of Cal (Mychal, Philadelphia Eagles 2nd round selection in 2012)âŠrated as the highest prospect by pro services heading into the 2014 campaignâŠlived up to itâŠalways around the footballâŠplays the game with his emotionsâŠsize or lack thereof will work against him for some NFL teamsâŠnot totally sure where I'd want him to playâŠbut he can and that's all that matters...Senior Bowl director Phil Savage not happy that Kendricks didn't handle his business well and sloughed off the Senior Bowl

Combine Update: Freak...4.62 at 267 lbs...25 reps at 225...39" vertical...10'7" broad jump...ridiculous workout...the medicals, which we won't see, will be scrutinized given his injury background, but the medical gurus didn't shut him down...Report: The Human Vowel had an outstanding 2014 campaignâŠinjuries eliminated his 2013 season before it got startedâŠsmartâŠstrong candidate to play 4-3 DE if his body holds upâŠrushed the passer very well throughout the season with a combination of burst, quickness and hand placement/useâŠfinished the season with six sacksâŠtied for team lead with 11.5 TFL...little awkward in certain aspects of space movements but his power, wow.

Combine Update: Came in at just about 200 lb., which was great to see...ran 4.42 in the 40 which was a strong time for an inside/outside WR candidate...injured early in on-the field drills so he missed the rest of testing...Report: Declared early for the 2015 NFL DraftâŠreceived much more of the focus from opposing defenses this yearâŠfaced a bunch of single coverage in 2013, but USC staff did a great job finding ways to get him the ballâŠlined up in the slot, played the perimeter positionâŠa little thin but can make plays on the ball down the fieldâŠhands are inconsistent

Combine Update: 35 1/8" arms!...2nd best vertical jump of all OL 32.5", but he was a basketball player so that shouldn't be too surprising...looked long and wiry on the hoof...ran decent 40 yard dash and moved well in the position on-the-field drills...solid weekend, especially after he did have some struggles at the Senior Bowl...Report: REALLY like Clemmings...plays with some pop at the point of attack...light on his feet, long arms, good punch and reach...powerful and drives defenders...the more I watched him, the more I really liked him...needs to anchor, drop his butt more in pass protectionâŠhis former QB Tom Savage spoke EXTREMELY highly of him and his potential (he should know, right?)...didn't have a tremendous week in Mobile...stood too tall at times and got beat by spin moves

Combine Update: The Senior Bowl was better for Davis than the Combine...he ran 5.07 in the 40 and his hands measured 11"...other than that, his measurements were ordinary...Report: 2nd-Team All-B1G in 2013âŠfour TFL and 1.5 sacks in 2013âŠhas moments when he's the most dominant player on the fieldâŠmoments when you wonder where he went...Senior Bowl week was one in which he was the most dominant on the field...I moved him up a round after seeing him destroy, completely destroy OL in Mobile.

Combine Update: 20 reps at 225, 4.79 in the 40..caught the rock well in position drills throughout...talked to scouts/coaches that all have Walford ahead of Maxx Williams at this point...Report: Will mix it up in the run gameâŠvery physical, will bury smaller opponentsâŠplays more like a Y-tight end than a joker/move H-backâŠexcellent understanding in the zone running game when to bump off to the second levelâŠreminds me of former Iowa TE C.J FiedorowiczâŠcan get vertical up the seamâŠthe offensive star of the Senior Bowl...no one could cover him...improved his stock tremendously after that week

Combine Update: Solid workout...ran 4.57 at 221 pounds but the explosive drills, he was excellent...39" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...talked to more and more individuals that see him as the No. 3 RB off the board...Strong and quickâŠ1,400+ yard rusher with 18 TD last year in 2013âŠaveraged nearly 6 yards per carry behind an average Boise State OLâŠslippery with some shakeâŠlike his early day two prospectsâŠton of touches in 2014 (370), could be a question how much tread on the tire he has leftâŠgood jump cut and feet

Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury suffered during pre-Combine workouts...Report: Declared for the 2015 NFL DraftâŠwise decisionâŠthis guy is big-timeâŠsaw one part of one game and that's all it took to know he's specialâŠsaw the complete package throughout the seasonâŠpowerful and productive backâŠruns a bit uprightâŠaveraged 7.5 yards per carry and 15 TD in 2014âŠrushed for 2,036 yards in 2014âŠ.a big-time home run hitter

Combine Update: This event is made for him...4.43 in the 40, 23 reps at 225, 41" vertical, 10'11" broad jump and sub 7.0 3-cone drill...a physical freak, which we already knew...just confirmed it...Report: Played with a bad knee all seasonâŠlacked the explosiveness in 2014 that he displayed in 2013âŠwhen healthy, he's freakishâŠdoesn't catch the ball consistentlyâŠmakes athletic, drops routine passes too oftenâŠhas a 44 inch vertical leap...runs a legitimate 4.3 in the 40 and benches 400 pounds...strong after the catch...can high point the rock in jump ball situation...starred in Mobile, all week...THAT Coates is another faster DeAndre Hopkins

Combine Update: 4.74 at 271 pounds is excellent...34" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...even did OLB drills after the DL workout...Report: Outstanding senior yearâŠsimilar to Trey Flowers (Arkansas)âŠmore of a power end...showed quickness throughout Senior Bowl week...spent first day in Mobile adjusting...different overall player the rest of the week...long arms...now learning how to use them

Combine Update: Started the week winning the press conference...ran 4.78 in the 40 and had a 34.5" vertical...so effortless catching the football in all TE position specific drills...some will question his 17 reps on bench...Report: Arguably, best tight end in this classâŠsmart move to come out now and capitalize on void at this positionâŠathletic with the ball in his handsâŠsolid competitor as an in-line blockerâŠlove his ability to get open at nearly every level

Combine Update: Showed up at 237 pounds...not sure that's his ideal playing weight...still at that weight, he ran 4.49 40 and had a 6.89 3-cone drill...his explosiveness drills - vertical and broad were average given his physical size, strength and speed...caught it well...didn't wow many in the interview room with the way he handled difficult questions...good luck, NFL teams, figuring out what to do with him...Report: HUGE question mark off the fieldâŠclosest thing to AJ Green that we've seenâŠbooted from Missouri and transferred to Oklahoma for the 2014 season, although he was ineligible following his transferâŠneeded to see another great year to feel "top five pick" confidenceâŠnot at all sure what the future holds for one of the more talented players in the gameâŠthe character concerns could drop him off many teams' boardsâŠacrobatic receiver who makes the difficult look easyâŠdownfield receiver at worstâŠhis own worst enemy

Combine Update: Comparable size wise to Arik Armstead (Oregon) but ran faster 5.03 and was much better in SS with a 4.19 and in 3-cone with a 7.20...his 10-yard split was on par with LB average and he's a 3-4 DE...Yet, Armstead gets the more run?...Interesting...great weekend for Anderson...Report: Prototype 3-4 DEâŠbetter athlete than you'd expect at his weight when healthyâŠknee injury cost him games last yearâŠlike him as a day two prospect with upsideâŠthought there were times when teams just couldn't block him in 2014âŠhad 14.5 sacks in 2014 from a myriad of positions and alignments...through the first two days of the Senior Bowl, I didn't see one interior OL that blocked him at all...love the versatility...I'm higher on him than others but if you saw him in Mobile, you couldn't help but to be impressed

Combine Update: This wasn't a great weekend for Dawson...he ran a 4.93 40 and that was the talk of the day (negative talk that is)...he plays much faster but that time will create doubt until he runs again at his Pro Day...at only 235 pounds, he has to show he can move and run but today was not that day...hopefully his TCU Pro Day will be...Report: LOVE DawsonâŠsmart, physical and nastyâŠreads keys well and gets to the football in a hurryâŠcan play all three downsâŠhas some off the field baggage that could hurt himâŠthis guy is a PLAYER and going to fit a team's NFL defense with his ability to play in different schemes

Combine Update: Excellent workout as he ran 4.40 in the 40, 35.5" vertical, 10'1" broad jump, 6.89 in 3-cone and 4.07 in SS...caught the ball well to complete the workout...Report: Three way threat (rush, return and receiving)âŠsmart offensive teams will LOVE himâŠthe best return guy in the mixâŠsize of a slot receiver, ability to play inside or outsideâŠexcellent after the catchâŠblazing speedâŠgives me a definite Randall Cobb vibeâŠinside or outside, I'd take him in a heartbeatâŠburst and change of direction are outstanding...completely spun DB around at the Senior Bowl in one-on-ones...the comparison to Cleveland Brown WR Andrew Hawkins is apt...one of the biggest buzz players in Mobile

Combine Update: His numbers are just freaky...292 pounds, 5.10 in the 40, 34" vertical, nearly 10' in the broad jump...power in his on-the-field drills...he's getting closer but his game still needs improvement...his Combine doesn't...Report: At this point, he's still a project, but less of one than at the beginning of the 2014 seasonâŠit's evident he's still learning the gameâŠwas not a day two player at the start of the seasonâŠplayed with much more leverage and powerâŠutilized his assets much moreâŠstill raw and struggled getting off good pass protection OLâŠhard to look away from speed, agility and quickness for a guy this size

Combine Update: Freakish athletically, that's for sure...4.52 in the 40, 41.5" vertical, 10'10" broad jump...his quickness, COD were amazing - 6.79 3-cone and 3.89 SS...wow!...as I mentioned his feet - they stand out...oh, and if you haven't seen the video of him doing a flip and catching a one handed pass, go find it ASAP...Report: Whoowee, he's got some quick feetâŠhis backpedal is blazingly fastâŠlong arms and very confidentâŠbreak on the ball is outstandingâŠseven passes defensed in 2014

Combine Update: Strong workout for Erving...30/30 guy - 30 reps on bench and 30.5" vertical jump...didn't think he was in great shape but his workout proved otherwise...still think he needs to stay at center as opposed to tackle...Report: Think he's a tad overratedâŠgoing back to school was a good move, in my opinion, in 2014âŠmid-to-late day two prospectâŠknee benderâŠplays from athletic stance and positionâŠoverextends at timesâŠmoved to center late in the 2014 season and that's going to be his position, I'd imagine, going forwardâŠcould flourish at that position at the next levelâŠnot athletic enough to truly dominate the left edge

Combine Update: This guy is the worst kept secret in this class - he's going to be a star...he ran 4.48, jumped 36" vertically, 10'4" broad jump and his COD drills were outstanding - 6'77 in the 3-cone...Wow!...Great workout - made it look very easy...had minor foot surgery in early March, as such he missed his Pro Day workout on 3/27 Report: ShhhhâŠdon't tell anyone about this guyâŠoh who am I kidding, this guy is fun to watchâŠcan play cornerâŠcan play safetyâŠnot sure where I'd want him to play if I were a defensive coordinatorâŠtremendous size for a cornerâŠgood tackler that can play either safety positionâŠdidn't get a first or second round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board but that didn't stand in the way of Collins declaring for the 2015 NFL Draft

Combine Update: A 30" vertical for a 329 lb. man is pretty impressive...other than that, there wasn't much to write home about for Phillips on Combine weekend...Report: Missed most of the 2013 season with a back injuryâŠreturned to start 13 games over the nose for the SoonersâŠathletic for being such a large human being...when in shape, he flashes on tape impressively...when he tires, he's useless, he gets reached, he gets moved...too inconsistent in my opinion...if he takes care of his body and is in good shape, he'll be a star at the next level

Combine Update: One of the Combine's anomalies...put up 37 reps but didn't show that power in on-the-field drills... in fact, he looked weak during the on-the-field work...that said, he's athletic as can be for a guy 329 lb...he didn't jump or do COD drills...Report: Third year eligible juniorâŠessentially decided prior to the 2014 season that he would make himself eligible for the 2015 DraftâŠthink he's probably more suited to be a right tackleâŠhas plenty of nasty and athleticismâŠtechnique needs some workâŠpowerful at the point of attackâŠspeed off the edge gets him off balance

Combine Update: Ran 4.60 in the 40, 35" vertical, 10'3" broad jump, 7.07 3-cone drill...quite honestly, he put on a show but we expected that...his raw rush ability needs work but that's not the point of the Combine...Report: Arguably, the best pass rusher in the ACC not named Vic BeasleyâŠa true OLB prospectâŠan exceptional athleteâŠhas unmatched length, wowâŠhas bulked up to 235 in the last three years (from 215 lb)âŠneeds to learn hand placement and usageâŠcan get lifted off his feet by stout offensive linemenâŠbut wow, athleticism pops on tape

Combine Update: Only ran the 40 and jumped...ran 4.54 in the 40, 33.5" vertical and 10'1" broad jump...solid numbers...position drills were no match for his start and stop quickness...workout was pretty much as expected...Report: When he went down in 2013, Miami crateredâŠburst and explosiveness are the hallmarks to his gameâŠtoughness to run between the tacklesâŠfumbles too much, in fact, he was demoted during practiceâŠhad a fumble to end the Independence BowlâŠaveraged over six yards a carryâŠruns behind his padsâŠran back kicksâŠhasn't been asked to be a factor in the passing game

Combine Update: He put up 30 reps at 225 and had a 1.69 ten yard split...31" vertical...best part of his day was on-the-field where he shines so very much...Report: At the Senior Bowl, I interviewed him and looked down at him a shade, so he's right at 6'...stout but strong as an oxâŠquick and extremely difficult to blockâŠplays with good leverageâŠson of former Atlanta Falcon great Jessie Tuggle...at Senior Bowl, there were times where OL didn't even touch him in 1-on-1s...can get swallowed up if OL gets hands on him

Combine Update: Like many of his CB counterparts, he put together a solid workout...4.57 at nearly 200 lbs. was a tad disappointing but his 40" vertical, 11' broad jump were Top 5 in the entire DB group...still think I'd put him at safety but that's just me...excellent weekend for the former Nole...Report: Love his lengthâŠ2014 BCS National Champ. Game Defensive MVPâŠsmooth athlete who changes direction exceptionally well...former high school safety who could star at safety when his corner time is up.

Combine Update: Thought the best part of Edwards' weekend was the on-the-field work...change of direction was outstanding...showed some power and burst...did put up 32 reps at 225...10' broad jump...good, not great weekend...Report: Faced Auburn's Greg Robinson in the 2013 BCS Championship Game and had moments where he dominatedâŠdad played at Florida State and in NFLâŠtrue 4-3 DE but could play 5 technique in odd fronts on occasionâŠprototype 3-4 DE with ability to bump out to wide 9 in a 4-3...think he's better served in a role like JJ Watt's with the Houston Texans...plays with power and violence when motivated...worried that he only shows up when he wantsâŠcan apparently do a standing back flip

Combine Update: Ran 4.61 in the 40, but he crushed the COD and explosive drills - 42.5" vertical, 10'10" broad, 6.79 3-cone and 3.95 short shuttle...also came in at 205 lb...outstanding combine will put him in contention for No. 3 RB off the board...Report: 2nd leading rusher in Nebraska history (4,588)âŠhas grown on meâŠIn 2013, he showed me toughness, quickness, power and dependability (or maybe I just dropped the hate and gave him his due)âŠdinged up in 2014 in key games, still ran for over 1,600 yardsâŠwhen healthy, he showed what he's capable ofâŠgood visionâŠexcellent feetâŠfumbles were an issue in 2014...Senior Bowl Game MVP

Combine Update: Ran 4.46 in 40-yd dash, 38" VJ, 10' BJ, 6.83 3-cone and 14 reps of 225...Report: Florida native who ended up at ASU after a stint at Mesa Community CollegeâŠtriple digit tackles yet had 11 passes defensedâŠput in position to make a ton of plays given the aggressive nature of Todd Graham's defenseâŠhe'll blitz, play the middle, man up on a slot WRâŠquite frankly, he does a little bit of everythingâŠthink he's flying under the radar but a solid Senior Bowl performance put him front and center in a relatively weak safety classâŠultra-aggressive in both pass and run defenseâŠsometimes to his detriment

Combine Update: Outstanding weekend in Indy...second best 40 time of all OL at 5.01...32.5" vertical...light on his feet...still think he's got some work to do on his technique but the athleticism is there...Report: Missed two games this season and the Ducks only loss came in one of those...moved to LT this year...a ton of upheaval in Oregon's line this year and Fisher was the one constantâŠmoves well...gets separation with his pass pro punch...reminds me a bit of Texan T Will Yeatman

Combine Update: He's a definite height, weight, speed guy...ran 4.66 at 246 pounds...went over 40" with his vertical (40.5")...went 10'1" in the broad jump...honestly, though, it worked to confirm what we knew...his on-the-field drills showed where he's stiff in the hips and not always fluid and smooth...going to be a polarizing discussion in teams' draft war rooms, that's for sure...Report: Has played inside linebacker at Mississippi StateâŠbetter served to move to outsideâŠthat said, he has as much scheme versatility as any LB in this classâŠwould love to see him at 3-4 OLBâŠwould be a better Christian Jones if he did move to that spotâŠnot sure he's a great space player but has the agility and athleticism to learn...not a truly instinctive ILB

Combine Update: Didn't work out in Indianapolis due to an injury suffered during Rose Bowl workouts in December 2014...Report: Injured his knee in the lead up to the 2015 Rose BowlâŠstruggled a bit in man coverage, unlike in 2013âŠthought that his one-on-one film in 2013 v. former Oregon State star WR Brandin Cooks was as good as anyone's against Cooks that seasonâŠhis play slipped in 2014 but he wasn't going to last long, especially with his ability to play the slot corner positionâŠthe injury, though, may scare a few teams away

Combine Update: Didn't run the 40 or do any measurement drills...did on field workout...nothing spectacular...Report: Top guard in this classâŠpowerfulâŠstout and athleticâŠcan re-anchor against the bull rushâŠcan maneuver to the second levelâŠplays with good pad levelâŠreal good power base...does tend to get a wide base when bull rushed...moves laterally well...38 career starts

Combine Update: Checked all the boxes and made it look easy...4.44 in the 40 and 21 reps at 225...thought his on-field work was strong...flipped his hips well and smooth in all of his change of direction drills...Report: Looks taller than his 5'10"âŠhas long armsâŠruns well with fast receiversâŠin 2014 Orange Bowl, he ran stride for stride with both Sammy Watkins and Martavis BryantâŠconsistently made plays in his senior seasonâŠbreaks on the football wellâŠnot in the decision-making business (meaning...he'll strike at will)

Combine Update: 27 reps at 225 is excellent for any sized LB...ran 4.78 in the 40, 32" vertical and 9'5" broad jump...didn't do any other measurement drills...Report: Height isn't an issue for meâŠthick cutâŠexplodes through the ball carrierâŠsees the game well at ILBâŠhits like a Mack truckâŠmid-to-late day two prospect at this point

Combine Update: Tom Carter's son ran a 4.51 at 196 lb...then jumped 40" with a 10'1" broad jump...17 reps of 225...he's one of my underrated players in this class...Report: One of the best tackling cornerbacks I've seenâŠlove how he can make tackles in spaceâŠplayed most of the 2014 season banged upâŠdidn't play up to the level at which he was in 2012 or 2013âŠthe way that he tackles, I'd consider a move to safetyâŠhis 40 time and Pro Day times will indicate whether he'll stay at corner, get a shot to stay at corner.

Combine Update: Didn't know exactly what to expect from Prewitt but he ran a 4.60 in the 40...had solid explosive measurements - 35" vertical and 10'5" broad jump...Report: Big fan of Prewitt'sâŠone of those guys that's always around the footballâŠleader of the secondaryâŠsix picks in 2013 (nine in his career)âŠphysical and a solid tacklerâŠballhawk who fills in the alley and tackles well...not the fastest safety but has excellent instincts...moves around the formation, plays some linebacker...solid in coverage on TE and RB during Senior Bowl week

Combine Update: Mixed results...ran 4.70 in 40, 38.5" vertical and 10'2" broad jump...speed is concerning for a receiver and there were bigger tight ends that ran faster...first comparison point is to Kelvin Benjamin but KB ran 4.61 last year...Combine results make his placement difficult for sure...Report: Moving to WR this year after acting like a TE for two yearsâŠperfect type player for the NFL, especially now that big receivers are in vogueâŠdoesn't catch the ball consistentlyâŠmakes the acrobatic plays look routineâŠsomething needs to click for him though to be the top 32 player his talent tells us he can beâŠsuccess of big, physical receivers, especially in last year's draft (Kelvin Benjamin & Mike Evans) bodes well for him in 2014âŠathleticism off the charts

Combine Update: 4.86 in 40-yd dash with a blazing 1.68 10-yd split, 29" VJ, 9'2" BJ and 29 reps of 225...Report: Combination DT in even fronts, DE in odd frontsâŠdeclared a year early, a little bit of a surpriseâŠdoesn't hold up well v. double teams given the fact that he's less than 300 lbâŠ.quick feet and quick upfieldâŠfirst off the ball consistentlyâŠplays too highâŠloses leverage and power baseâŠstrong hands when he fires them and he uses them well and oftenâŠrip under move is strongâŠwhen he's hip to hip with an OL, it's overâŠhe can run and flies after the football on screens or runs awayâŠwill swim blocks and run himself out of a play when he should take on block and defeat the play (especially against TE)

Combine Update: Ran 4.45 in 40-yd dash with 1.57 10-yd splitâŠ39" VJâŠ10'5" BJâŠsterling 6.70 3-cone (wow!)âŠ3.97 short shuttleâŠexcellent on field workout...Report: Houstonian (from Klein HS)âŠHonorable mention All-Pac-12 honors in 2014âŠ14 passes defensed in 12 gamesâŠgut tells me he's a safety but played CB for most of the 2014 seasonâŠdecent ball skillsâŠinconsistent at cornerback but at least has that experienceâŠregistered 59 tackles in 2014âŠfinished in the top four in tackles each of his first three years at Utah (6th on team in 2014)âŠplayed mostly safety at the Senior BowlâŠthat's probably his best position, to be honest.

Combine Update: Smooth...change of direction, flipping the hips - check that box...4.46 in the 40, 6.81 in the 3-cone...former baseball looked like the CF that he once was with his ability to track the rock and high point the interception in on the field drills...Report: Ball hawkâŠinterception late in the win over Alabama got many people's attentionâŠnot many 5'9" corners have starred at the next levelâŠcertain teams will write him off the board just based on height...will need to overcome that "short corner" labelâŠcould play in the slot tooâŠcompetitive and toughâŠlikes to give space, even in press and close as ball is thrown...didn't overwhelm Senior Bowl with his play, but solid week...10 interceptions in 2014âŠ16 in his careerâŠplayed baseball at Ole Miss as well, drafted in the 8th round of the 2011 MLB Draft

Combine Update: Winner, winnerâŠJones crushed the CombineâŠ12'3" BJ set a national record, not just for the CombineâŠ44.5" VJ, 6.78 3-cone, 3.94 short shuttle and a sub-11 second long shuttleâŠincredibleâŠfor his Pro Day, he ran an unofficial 4.36 at Pro Day...Report: Height, weight, speed prospectâŠinjured most of the 2014 season...shoulder injury ended his season in October 2014âŠgets caught in off coverage a bunch and not in position to break on the football consistentlyâŠprototype size in this leagueâŠ32" arms, so the length is perfect.

Combine Update: Set records in the COD drills...3.98 in SS, 6.93 in the 3-cone...outstanding physical skill...average passing workout, in my opinion...went back to watch a few games prior to Combine and it didn't change my thoughts on him at all...Report: Smart to return for 2014âŠsprayed it for most of 2013âŠhas all the physical attributes - size, arm strength, speed and quicknessâŠintermediate passing game needs a ton of work/consistencyâŠthought more about NFL seemingly than 2013 season and it showedâŠhas thrown and/or run for a TD in every game as a starterâŠmuch better overall season in 2014âŠtook too many sacks though and started focusing more on the rush than keeping his eyes downfieldâŠcase in point, he was sacked ten times v. Utah and he shared in the blame for many of themâŠcompleted 69% of his passes but went to his legs a bit more in the second half of the season

Combine Update: I hoped that Anthony would shine in Indy and he did...it was Clemson LB day with Beasley and Anthony taking the day...he ran 4.56, hit 37" on his vertical and 10'2" with his broad jump...COD drills - 4.03 on his SS and 7.07 3-cone drill...excellent weekend for Anthony...Report: 121 tackles and 13.5 TFL in 2013âŠled the nation's number one defense with 75 tackles in 2014...runs very well for a 245 pound manâŠstill needs to be more violent, running through ball carriersâŠthat said, he's a solid tackler...saw a ton of progress with play recognition and key readsâŠliked what I saw throughout the season...really liked what I saw at the Senior Bowl...was one of the defensive stars of the week...got a bunch of people's attention

Combine Update: Didn't work out due to injury he suffered (and played through the entire season) during the year...Report: Thought to be the best safety on the West CoastâŠthree year starterâŠball hawk who'll mix it up physicallyâŠmoves all over the defenseâŠplays decent half coverageâŠexcellent football instinctsâŠprobably late day two guy given his under 6' sizeâŠbut he can play...missed the 2015 Senior Bowl with a sports hernia...played the majority of his senior season with that injury.

Combine Update: Perhaps the most impressive OL performance, on top of a strong Senior Bowl week...ran the best OL 40 and the only sub-5.0 time - 4.98, 30.5" vertical, 9' broad jump, 30 reps on the bench...pop and power in positional drills...should've been on my initial top 100 but he's there now for certain and to stay...Report: DIII player who dominated that level of competition...strong at the point of attack...held up to bull rushers at the Senior Bowl...slid well with speed rushers...one of the best performances by an OL at the Senior Bowl...could see him moving to center and being a 12-13 year mainstay for a team in the near future.

Combine Update: Ran 4.57 40-yd dash with 1.61 10-yd split and did 25 reps of 225âŠat Pro Day, 36.5" VJ and 10'10" BJ Report: LOOOOONGâŠhis length will give tackles problemsâŠhad solid day against A&M T Jake Matthews in 2013âŠloads of potential, but pass rush skills need a lot of workâŠled the Tigers with 13 TFL in 2014âŠdoesn't have a tremendous first step, but his length helps make up for it...sculpted physique, allegedly he has only 2% body fatâŠnot a quick twitch player but he's awkward to block effectivelyâŠhad 13 TFL, but only 1.5 sack, indicating his ability to make plays v. the run...has length to rush the passer, speed to rush the passer, but doesn't rush the passer well...that dichotomy I'm still trying to figure out...when something doesn't jive like that, I'm not willing to spend a 1st/2nd round pick on a guy like that...has to put it all together to be a complete OLB/edge player.

Combine Update: Didn't work out due to injury he suffered during 2014 season...Report: Moved to left tackle this year, following in the Jake Matthews-Luke Joeckel footstepsâŠexcellent lateral quicknessâŠneeds to show he can anchor against bull rushâŠhis 1-on-1 with Auburn star Dee Ford last year was the best 1-on-1 film I watched in 2013âŠtop 15 playerâŠBUT, that was before the 2014 season startedâŠhighly disappointed in his play...against ULM, he just quit on blocks...in pass protection, he started with good feet, kick stepped and slid...honestly, I wouldn't give him a third round grade right now...TORE HIS ACL AT SOME POINT IN 2014 SEASON

Combine Update: 4.53 in the 40 was a bit eye-opening as I expected a definite 4.4 number from him...his COD drills were outstanding though - 6.88 in the 3-cone, 4.12 in the SS...that was more in line what I expected from him...Report: SpeedâŠpure speed and quicknessâŠIn 2014, though he showed the full gamut of skillsâŠshowed he had the burst to be a catch and run receiverâŠran good intermediate routesâŠphysical for the ballâŠgives me a bit of an Odell Beckham Jr. vibeâŠsome have compared him to former Indianapolis Colts WR Marvin HarrisonâŠtrustworthy handsâŠtotal gamerâŠslight but tough

Combine Update: I'm telling you, this guy doesn't get enough attention...ran 4.53 at 221 pounds...35.5" vertical, 10'1" broad jump are both strong...sub-7.0 3-cone drill is outstanding...he's going to sneak up on people, but he can play...Report: One of my favorites at the running back position, beyond the obvious names Gordon & GurleyâŠone cut downhill runner who can excel in ZBS, power scheme or combinationâŠ

Combine Update: Listened to his interview in the media room and it was outstanding...intelligent, competitive...asked whether his intelligence was going to be a problem and he handled it well...strong and quick throughout all of his drills...Report: Best interior player Duke's had in a whileâŠI think he could play either guard or tackleâŠagile with requisite power at the point of attackâŠvocal leaderâŠhasn't played a ton of football in his life moving to the United States (from Jamaica) when he was 10âŠspent his formative years playing soccer, which is evident in his footworkâŠcomplete young man who spent May 2012 in Ethiopia for a water well-digging project

Combine Update: 4.57 in the 40 and a 36.5" vertical...solid numbers...wasn't the best workout and he hoped to be in the 4.4 range but for a 195 lb. corner, it was good enough...Report: 2014 MAC Defensive Player of the YearâŠuh, yeah, that was after playing point guard for the basketball team for four yearsâŠlong armsâŠexcellent hip turnâŠthe athletic stuff comes naturalâŠwould love to see him at free safety than at corner but he needs some time to work on his game at CBâŠtechnique (obviously) is lackingâŠkeep in mind that he only played one year of FBS football and can do THIS?!?âŠup and down moments at the Senior Bowl...still needs work on his press coverage technique...ball skills and COD are off the charts good.

Combine Update: Longest arms of the DE (34 1/4")...28 reps of 225...thought he showed some strong change of direction skills in on-the-field drills...shined in the vertical with 36.5" and 10'1" broad jump...continues his rise up boards...Report: When watching Arkansas tape in 2013 for former Hog DE Chris Smith, Flowers was the one that stood outâŠ2nd on the squad with 5.0 sacks and led the team with 13.5 tackles for a loss in 2013âŠadept at using his handsâŠexcellent hand placement and use for a young playerâŠloves to use the stab move when rushing the quarterbackâŠhad an even better 2014 and stood out nearly every game I saw him play in 2014

Combine Update: Not a tremendous workout, but he can play...nothing stood out...thought his quickness drills would be much better, given the fact that he is a start and stop dynamo but they were average (7.17 in 3-cone & 4.32 in SS)...Report: Stereotyped as the consummate slot receiverâŠmoved all around the formation for DukeâŠdynamic after the catch...stop on the dime quicks...quick as a hiccup...still like him as a slot candidate at the next level, but not as a slot onlyâŠexcellent punt return skills as well...caught 108 passes in 2013...finished the 2014 season with 85 receptions for 1,044 yards and six touchdownsâŠwas a Senior Bowl standout...not one DB had success against him in the slot or on the perimeter

Combine Update: Rave reviews throwing the ball...effortless release...more than looked the part throwing to WR on Saturday...moved him into Top 100 based on re-watching last half of season...much more comfortable and productive...QB coach George Whitfield couldn't say enough about him...making bid to be No. 3 QB off the board...Report: Quick releaseâŠthrew the ball downfield accurately in 2013âŠplays the game too fast on occasionâŠthrows easy, catchable ballâŠdoesn't throw entire route treeâŠ2013 1st Team All-Big 12âŠthrew at least two TD in every gameâŠ7th in Heisman voting in 2013âŠhowever, didn't have a stellar 2014 seasonâŠproduction was there as alwaysâŠhurt his back and neck this year and that seemingly hurt his accuracyâŠdidn't throw the deep ball well at all until the bowl gameâŠpressure impacted him more than it should haveâŠhas a 38 inch vertical leapâŠprobably a late day two option given his early struggles in 2014

Combine Update: Pulled his hamstring 35 yards down the way on his first 40 and that was it for the day, unfortunately...really wanted to see him work out...Report: Had an outstanding season for the GophersâŠpatient and powerfulâŠburst to the second levelâŠmay not have tremendous long speed, but who caresâŠdurable and toughâŠmotivated back who creates chips to put on his shoulder, I like that

Combine Update: Didn't ever think I'd hear people call a 4.42 disappointing but that's what most thought about Smith's 40 yard dash time...I'm not losing sleep over it because he plays at 4.42 on the field...strong explosive drill measurements - 39" vertical and 10'2" broad jump...didn't gain or lose with his Combine performance...Report: The human 9 routeâŠwill be a big-time outside the numbers receiverâŠaverages nearly 28 yards per catch...truly the biggest home run hitter in this game...outstanding downfield ability...needs work inside the numbers on the complete NFL route treeâŠoutstanding athlete and tremendously athletic with the ball in the air

Combine Update: Didn't work out other than doing the bench (17 reps at 225)...Report: Lead the nation in interceptions (14)âŠno tackle, loves to cover safetyâŠdoesn't wrap up at allâŠdid have a shoulder injury in 2013 that still lingers it appearsâŠleft the Belk Bowl after throwing his shoulder into UGA RB Nick ChubbâŠgoing to be a polarizing prospect given his immense ball skills and horrid tackling ability/desireâŠcovers space in a hiccup.

Combine Update: Money making day for Smith...ran 4.45, hit 36" with his vertical jump, 10'4" in the broad jump and 6.96 in the 3-cone...fluid and explosive during on the field drills...Report: 2nd Team All-CUSA in 2014âŠ1st Team All-C-USA cornerback in 2013...three year starterâŠsecond nationally in pass defensedâŠplays with south Florida confidenceâŠ...competitive and showed that at the Senior Bowl.

Combine Update: Slow 40 time and did not thrive in Combine event environment...he's not a Combine warrior to stay the least...was Sr. Bowl MVP...Report: Plays angry with a powerful base...footwork is sloppy...defenders cannot move him on pass rush...best chance to beat him off the ball is with quickness...if he gets hands on you, forget itâŠcan get off balance moving laterally in pass protection...zone scheme footwork needs work...power game is off the chartsâŠin 2013, UF DE Dante Fowler wreaked havoc against FSU OL with the exception of Jackson - the FSU guard stoned him each time he looped/stunted insideâŠwas not impressive in 2014âŠunable to consistently stay on blocksâŠpass protection was shakyâŠseemed like a complete and total different player in 2014...solid Senior Bowl week, improved each day though

Combine Update: Showing up in Indianapolis at 298 lb. was a surprise, as was his 5.00 40 yard dash...I didn't put him in my first version of the Top 100...should have...been a fan for a while and Combine solidified that belief in him...not sure where exactly to play him but he has enough ability to "draft him and figure it out" late on day two or early day three...Report: A last second add to the 2015 NFL Draft classâŠthought another year in the SEC would be huge for himâŠthat said, he can playâŠshorter and more stoutâŠquick and slippery

Combine Update: Like many TCU players, didn't run a strong 40 - finished with a 4.60, but rest of the workout was solid...36.5" vertical, 10'4" broad jump, 6.97 in the 3-cone and 3.96 in SS...nice recovery during the rest of the day...the 40 time will stand out for a corner his size so his Pro Day results is now hugely important for some teams...Report: Like his cover skills...tiny though...could be slot cover corner candidate at the next levelâŠcompetitive and challenges the best receiver on the other side of the fieldâŠ1st Team All-Big 12 in 2014âŠcatalyst in the best secondary in the Big 12 in 2014âŠ

Combine Update: Ran a 4.90 40 and looked stiff in on-the-field drills...didn't do any other measurements outside of the 40...Report: Consummate size and power to play 4-3 defensive endâŠtrue difference maker on the edgeâŠneeds to be more consistent with his hands, given his power...came to Mobile very confident but didn't excel like he did in senior season at Missouri

Combine Update: Didn't work out as he's rehabbing from a season-ending injury...Report: As intriguing a prospect as anyâŠhe was a pitcher on the baseball team (stopped playing in March to focus on football)âŠhas the perfect size to flourish in the NFLâŠplays for a team running the optionâŠonly two years in college footballâŠas such, hard as heck to project his receiver skills/attributes with so little experience in an option offense

Combine Update: 4.33 40 which was a tad slower than he expected, although the expectations were through the roof for this kid...37" vertical and 10'2" broad jump but his COD 3-cone drill was awesome (6.70)...Report: Can fly, but didn't play at that speed during his career unless he was running the nine routeâŠdidn't always catch the ball cleanlyâŠran the nine route and not much else until the Senior BowlâŠwas the buzz of Mobile...was a completely different player down in Mobile...played at a different rate than everyone else...has me confused which player he is...if he's the one that played in Mobile, he's a bigger T.Y Hilton...if he's not, he's Jacoby Ford

Combine Update: Flew through the 40 - 4.41...excellent overall workout - 38" vertical, 10'2" broad jump, sub-7 3-cone drill...the game looks easy and it's hard to imagine that he couldn't have helped an FBS team...either way, he's a solid day 3 candidate in an outstanding receiver group...Report: Rock star of the 2015 Shrine BowlâŠdoes jaw dropping things with the ball in the airâŠmassive catching radius for a guy just a shade over 6'1"âŠwins most 50/50 ballsâŠsmart, crafty route runnerâŠdidn't, obviously, face top competition but in 2013 faced West Virginia and went over WVU defenders twice for deep downfield catches, big-time catches

Combine Update: Did not workout due to an injury...Report: Can play three technique in either even or odd frontsâŠcan play the 5-tech in odd frontsâŠstrong finish to the 2013 seasonâŠone of the top interior linemen in this draft class...a true under tackle, 3-technique in even fronts...could excel as a 4/5 technique in odd fronts...that versatility will do wonders for him come April/May in the 2015 NFL Draft

Combine Update: Ran a 4.61 40 which was about average within the RB group...36" vertical and 9'9" broad jump...average workout for Yeldon but solid 3rd season playing through injuries will get more attention...Report: Sweet feet and runs hardâŠvision is questionableâŠproductive behind a good lineâŠshowed a ton of toughness during the 2014 seasonâŠplayed hurt (ankle, in particular) and ran hardâŠexcellent receiver out of the backfieldâŠdon't think he truly sees running lanes but he's grown on me a bitâŠcomplementary back at this point, not a game changer

Combine Update: Did on the field drills but didn't do any measurement drills...the stiffness in his hips is more evident in movement drills but his hand usage/technique isn't on display in these drills...will test during his Pro Day...Report: 13 sacks in 2013âŠplayed majority of the time with his hand in the dirtâŠhas to prove he can drop to play 3-4âŠrelentlessâŠintelligent - All-Academic Pac-12 in 2013âŠbest pass rusher Washington's had in yearsâŠpossesses athleticism to move to 3-4 OLB...redirects explosively...plays the game with his hair on fire...low center of gravity...when he dips the shoulder, tackles struggle to get hands on him...one of the nation's leading sack artists...agile feet and stays upright...didn't completely dominate the Senior Bowl...stiff in space...former judo champion, so he knows how to use hands effectively

Combine Update: The Combine is not his playground but I liked the way he moved...talked to him 1-on-1 and said he'd like to play guard but played T because Utah needed him there...Played LT at UtahâŠbest position is guard at the next levelâŠstout and a huge, think trunkâŠa little stiff but he's a house that can move...needs technique work but he could be the next Mike Iupati

Combine Update: Excellent Combine for Tartt...4.53 in the 40, 35.5" vertical (for a 221 lb. safety) and 10'4" broad jump...this isn't a great safety class so that workout could put him in the discussion to be the second safety off the board in April/May...Report: Didn't start playing football until his senior year in high schoolâŠsprained his ankle getting rolled up on during the Auburn gameâŠgood rangeâŠwill drop the hammer, WOWâŠexcellent tackler, great technique - drops tail, keeps head up and WRAPS UP consistently.

Combine Update: Ran 4.49 in 40-yd dash, 19 reps of 225 (strong!), 34.5" VJ, 9'7" BJ, 4.07 short shuttle and 6.88 3-cone...Report: JUCO transfer prior to his junior year in 2013âŠteams were smart attacking him as a senior in 2014âŠtough and an intense competitorâŠfootwork on his backpedal is oddâŠhe false steps forward when in off coverageâŠthat "hitch" has to changeâŠman, can he drive on the footballâŠeven in off coverage, he matches cuts and ends up in WR hip pocketsâŠphysical tackler when he wants to beâŠpicks and chooses his spots when to make "wise" business decisionsâŠopens hips too soon on press coverage, which opens gate for slants/inside routes

Combine Update: Ran a 4.50 in the 40...didn't really stand out with any other measurements...doesn't matter though, he was smooth and fluid in COD on the field doing DB drills...one of my underrateds in this draft class...Report: 12 interceptions in two years as a starterâŠgreat instincts and ball skillsâŠuncanny knack for reading routes and breaking on the ballâŠlove his prospectsâŠsmooth athlete with closing speed and good hip turnâŠhe can flyâŠteams won't throw at him this year, so don't expect seven interceptions again.

Combine Update: Didn't get a ton of attention for his Combine workout, still had decent weekend...he ran 4.83 in the 40...other measurements were good, not great...Report: Intriguing skill setâŠgood redirection and change of directionâŠruns wellâŠplays extremely hardâŠnot sure he can be a true 3-4 OLBâŠdecent with his handsâŠneeds to be even more violent but plays with good powerâŠshowed more burst and explosive abilities at the 2015 Shrine Bowl than I can remember seeing him display all season longâŠneeds to refine his pass rush techniques - rip under to get free, in particularâŠthink he's a 4-3 LDE, more of a power end but man, seeing him rush the passer at the Shrine Bowl encouraged me a bit...then he went to the Senior Bowl and had an even better week...starred throughout...stiff in space but other than that he proved he's worthy of a top 100 spot.
Quote
"Looking back, a lot of people probably thought it was the wrong decision and a lot of people thought I should have left. I feel I get better every year, and I felt like I was going to be a better player than I was last year. There were some things I wanted to achieve. I didn't get the Big Ten Championship, but I got the bowl game out of it. I think I became a better player overall, so I did the things I needed to do and I feel like this year was a success" - Gordon on why he returned in 2014.
What to like
--Burst to the second level
--Pass protection - he takes pride in stepping up and stoning blitzing linebackers
--Patient runner who learned throughout 2014 to allow his blocks to set up in front of him
--Vision is seemingly on a level beyond where he is
--Stutter and go move can completely freeze a DB in space
--Doesn't use a ton of moves in space, but when he does (spin, stutter and go), they're highly effective.
--Even when he does bounce runs to outside, his hips always stay square to LOS which allows him to burst downfield in a beat.
--Smart ball player too - late in Auburn game, he recognized that if he slipped out to flat instead of taking on blitzer he'd be wide open. So he did, QB found him for a five yard gain to set up 3rd and five, instead of QB having to throw it away to set up a 3rd and ten.
--NFL body - I saw him on the sidelines of the opening game v. LSU and I see NFL bodies every day. He'd have fit right in had he taken his Badgers uni off and put a Texans one on.
--He does love to bounce, but he's the one guy I've seen that has any chance to plant and burst upfield, beating perimeter defenders.
What needs some work
--Seemingly, first thought is to bounce to outside, even though he runs well between tackles.
--Didn't throw him the ball a bunch out of the backfield - absence of catches, though, doesn't mean he can do it, just means it'll take some work to be proficient.
--Although he'll run behind his pads, he doesn't break a ton of tackles.
--Rarely, if ever, sees cutback or cutup holes - stays true to play or tries to bounce
--Fumbled SEVEN times in 2014 and lost six of them, including a nail in the coffin scoop and score right before halftime of the B1G Championship game v. Ohio State
--A number of his longest runs were on jet sweeps/gun sweeps where he could get the corner, as such it won't happen with such consistency at the next level.
Projection
Assets and liabilities aside, one thing, more than any other, stands out about Gordon. Wisconsin has never had a great QB situation, other than the year the Wolf Badger Russell Wilson played one year in Madison. Other than that, it's been the next version of Darrell Bevell who started this string of handoff caretakers, so to speak, back in 1993. But, the 2014 versions of Darrell Bevell, Joel Stave and Tanner McAvoy, were probably at the lower rung of Badger signal callers. As such, the entire offense rested on Gordon's shoulders. Every. Single. Week. He faced eight and nine in the box with regularity and still beat a majority of those defenses. For example, Ohio State eschewed any other Badgers' offensive threat until it was third and long and then swallowed Stave and company whole.
Gordon should probably get drafted, no later, than the latter stages of the first round which should send him to a playoff team or one with a solid quarterback/offensive situation. Take one less guy out of the box. Put the focus on a TE or a gamebreaking WR. Then, hand Gordon the rock and see what happens. Even as the focus of every defense he faced, he still piled up 2,587 yards on the ground, the second highest single season total of all-time. First on the list is Barry Sanders. He did well in the NFL. Third on the list is Kevin Smith. He didn't have as much success at the next level. That said, Smith never had the juice that Gordon does. Is that enough? Certainly not, but it's a start.
A scout, the anonymous one who speaks ALL the time, said last week that Gordon and Todd Gurley won't make it past No. 20 in the draft. Gordon's got some work to do on his game as noted above, but it wouldn't surprise me if anonymous scout is right and he doesn't even make it to those playoff teams.












